"Uncle," said Ben, stopping Mr. Gresham before he got out of the carriage, "I don't think a uniform is at all necessary for me. I'm very much obliged to you, but I would rather not have one. I have a very good coat—and I think it would be waste."
"Well, let me out of the carriage and we will see about it," said Mr. Gresham "perhaps the sight of the beautiful green and white cloth, and the epaulettes (have you ever considered the epaulettes?) may tempt you to change your mind."
"Oh, no," said Ben, laughing; "I shall not change my mind."
The green cloth, and the white cloth, and the epaulettes, were produced, to Hal's infinite satisfaction. His uncle took up a pen, and calculated for a few minutes; then, showing the back of the letter, upon which he was writing, to his nephews, "Cast up these sums, boys," said he, "and tell me whether I am right."
"Ben, do you do it," said Hal, a little embarrassed; "I am not quick at figures."
Ben was, and he went over his uncle's calculation very expeditiously.
"It is right, is it?" said Mr. Gresham.
"Yes, Sir, quite right."
"Then by this calculation, I find I could for less than half the money your uniforms would cost, purchase for each of you boys a warm great-coat, which you will want, I have a notion, this winter upon the Downs."
"Oh, Sir," said Hal, with an alarmed look; "but it is not winter yet; it is not cold weather yet. We sha'n't want great-coats yet."